Ravens interested in ex-Steeler Ryan Clark, other safeties, according to sources

Aaron WilsonThe Baltimore Sun

The Ravens and former Pittsburgh Steelers free safety Ryan Clark have mutual interest, according to sources.

But it remains to be seen whether that ultimately develops into a deal because Clark is currently in negotiations with the Washington Redskins, according to a source, following his free-agent visit to Redskins Park last week.

At this point, talks between the Redskins and Clark haven't advanced to the point that a deal is imminent. That could change quickly, though.

Clark, 34, also has drawn interest from the New York Jets. An aggressive, hard-hitting free safety, he has played in one Pro Bowl. Clark once knocked former Ravens running back Willis McGahee unconscious with a devastating tackle during the 2008 AFC championship game, giving him a concussion.

Clark, who has played for the Steelers in the past eight seasons of a 12-year NFL career, started every game last season, finishing with 104 tackles and two interceptions.

For his career, the 5-foot-11, 205-pound former Louisiana State standout has 827 tackles, 15 interceptions, five forced fumbles and 3.5 sacks.

The Ravens continue to monitor the safety market, which includes safety James Ihedigbo.

Ihedigbo had a career-high 101 tackles and three interceptions last season while starting every game for the Ravens. The team hasn't ruled out bringing back Ihedigbo, who visited the Detroit Lions last week and left without a deal.

Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome said after the season that the team is seeking a natural center fielder type of safety to work in tandem with Matt Elam.

Elam started at free safety last season, but he would likely be more comfortable and a better fit at strong safety, where his run support would be a greater asset.